Math Olympiad adds up to an afternoon of fun for UCS elementary students

It all adds up to a great afternoon with friends for UCS elementary students who participated in the annual UCS Math Competition.

Nearly 200 fourth through sixth graders crowded Havel Elementary classrooms recently to take part in the afterschool event.

"I think it is a lot of fun," said Morgan sixth grader Collin Blanchard. "It is a chance to learn more about math and and have fun with your friends."

The local competition mirrors the national Math Olympiad tournament, requiring students to complete higher-level math problems in individual and team competitions.

More than 40 teams took part in three different competitions, including a jeapordy-like tournament that rounded out the night. For organizers, the goal of the event was to show students that challenging themselves with math problems can equal a fun time.

And while the students said they agree the event is a great way to be with their friends, Duncan sixth-grade student Gabrielle Staples said there were also practical benefits to improving your math skills.

"It can get you into a great school," she said.

Winners from this year's event were:

Individual Event: Avinash Pallai (1st place) / Christian Placinto (2nd place) / Lauryn Holmes (3rd place)

Quizbowl Event: Plumbrook A (1st place) / Messmore B (2nd place) / Messmore A (3rd place)

Team Event: Messmore B (1st place) / Beacon Tree A and Dresden A (tie for 2nd place)

Overall Tournament Champions: Messmore B (1st place) / Messmore A (2nd place) / Plumbrook A (3rd place)